Cardinals draft pick Davis Ward talks to Redbird Rants

Davis Ward, a 40th round draft pick by the St. Louis Cardinals, spoke to Redbird Rants on Tuesday.

More from St Louis Cardinals News

• Cardinals Rumors: 3 pros and cons of signing Carlos Rodon
• Cardinals: Here is Willson Contreras’ first message for St. Louis fans
• How do the St. Louis Cardinals stack up with Willson Contreras?
• Cardinals: The insane asking price the Athletics had for Sean Murphy
• St. Louis Cardinals: Ask me anything with Josh Jacobs – 12/8

Daniel Solzman: Thanks for joining Redbird Rants today. How are things treating you?

Davis Ward: Thanks so much! I’m doing good today.

Daniel Solzman: Can you describe what it felt like when you were drafted during the final round of the draft?

Davis Ward: It felt great to get a chance to play pro ball, and that chance is the same whether you’re the first or last pick of the draft.

Daniel Solzman: As the draft got into the final round on Saturday, was there a point that you thought maybe you wouldn’t be picked? And does being the very last pick bring with you that determination factor as you start up your professional career?

Davis Ward: Towards the end I was thinking it might not happen, I was getting a little anxious but I felt like I had a good chance to sign as a free agent if I wasn’t picked. As for determination factor I think my approach would be same regardless of where I went, I have to go in work hard and keep trying to improve my game.

Daniel Solzman: When did you find out that the Cardinals were interested in you?

Davis Ward: I would say maybe midway through the season.

Daniel Solzman: What’s the reaction been like on Twitter and social media since the Cardinals drafted you?

Davis Ward: There’s been a ton of great support from my friends and family and from the OBU community, it’s great to have so many people in your corner.

Daniel Solzman: What did you do during the last week to take your mind off the draft?

Davis Ward: I actually got a couple of part time jobs just to stay busy. In addition I worked out, ran and threw with my dad when I could.

Daniel Solzman: How has Ouachita Baptist coach Jeremy Haworth helped in preparing you ready for the next level?

Davis Ward: Coach Haworth and the rest of the OBU staff have instilled a really great businesslike hardworking mentality that will serve me not only in baseball but really in all areas of life.

Daniel Solzman: Seeing how the Cardinals have developed pitchers over the last few seasons, are you looking forward to working with the coaches and veterans during Spring Training next year?

Davis Ward: Absolutely, the reputation of the system is fantastic and I’m really looking forward to it.

Daniel Solzman: The Hall of Famers always make a visit in Jupiter during Spring Training. Is there anyone in particular that you are really looking forward to meeting?

Davis Ward: I would love to meet Ozzie Smith.

Daniel Solzman: Who was your favorite player growing up?

Davis Ward: My favorite player by far was Greg Maddux.

Daniel Solzman: Thanks again for joining us and best of luck as your make your way up through the organization. Any words for the best fans in baseball?

Davis Ward: I’m happy and pleased to be part of a great organization and GO CARDS!